New South Wales prison capacity and regional disputes

The New South Wales government announced a $47 million investment to expand prison capacity in metropolitan Sydney, specifically targeting the reopening of beds at Silverwater and accelerating additions at Parklea Correctional Centre. Officials noted this expansion is necessary to manage record numbers of people on remand, a trend partially attributed to 2024 bail law changes.

This decision has led to friction with regional leadership. Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Nina Dillon criticized the focus on metropolitan infrastructure, arguing funds should have supported Goulburn gaol following the closure of its maximum security wings.

In subsequent developments, Corrections Minister Anoulack Chanthivong defended the closures, stating the wings were not ‘fit for purpose’ and that facilities should be situated near high-density prison areas. Tensions escalated when Corrective Services prohibited Mayor Dillon from attending a family day at the correctional centre, a move the Minister reportedly justified to prevent the gathering from becoming a ‘political event’.